Why Steel?

[SadieKate]

I get it now, lugged = no welds, non-lugged = welds. You're right, it would be much nicer looking without all the lumpy welds.

Nope, not quite right either. Here's a little primer.

Lugged construction - includes brazing of the lugs to bond the tubes to the lugs
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lugged_...e_construction

TIG Welded – Some materials require it, such as titanium. Ti masters (like Steve Potts) can make the weld a stunning necklace.
http://www.stevepottscycles.com/imag...at_cluster.jpg

Fillet Brazing – this is NOT lumpy construction nor is it welding. The tube junctions should be absolutely smooth and is a measure of a builder’s technique. After painting, the tubes just flow into each other.
http://www.sandsmachine.com/bp_boh.htm

[Pax]

Sadie, excellent links, thanks! I guess my old Raleigh 10 speed (early 70's) was lugged.